U.S. patent application number 10/986374 was filed with the patent office on 2006-05-18 for recess light fixture adapter and method.
Invention is credited to Andrew Rae.
Application Number | 20060101741 10/986374 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36384661 |
Filed Date | 2006-05-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060101741 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Rae; Andrew |
May 18, 2006 |
Recess light fixture adapter and method
Abstract
A recess light fixture adapter for mounting a recess light
fixture in an existing ceiling or a wall comprises an interior
member for mounting against the interior surface of a ceiling or a
wall, an exterior member for mounting against the exterior surface
of a ceiling or a wall, and fasteners for interconnecting the
interior member and the exterior member with respect to the ceiling
or a wall.
Inventors: |
Rae; Andrew; (Mississauga,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ANDREW RAE
c/o UNIT 33 - 2280 MUNN'S AVENUE EAST
OAKVILLE
ON
L6H 3L1
CA
|
Family ID: |
36384661 |
Appl. No.: |
10/986374 |
Filed: |
November 12, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/220.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F21V 21/04 20130101;
E04B 9/32 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
052/220.1 |
International
Class: |
E04C 2/52 20060101
E04C002/52 |
Claims
1. A recess light fixture adapter for mounting a recess light
fixture in an existing ceiling or a wall having an existing
over-sized opening, said recess light fixture adapter comprising:
an interior member for mounting against the interior surface of a
ceiling or a wall; an exterior member for mounting against the
exterior surface of a ceiling or a wall; and, means for
interconnecting said interior member and said exterior member with
respect to said ceiling or a wall.
2. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 1, wherein said
interior member comprises an interior plate having a perimeter
edge, an upper surface, and a lower surface.
3. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 2, wherein said
interior plate has an interior fixture receiving aperture disposed
therein.
4. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 3, wherein said
interior plate is flexible.
5. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 4, wherein said
interior plate is made from metal.
5. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 4, wherein said
interior plate is made from plastic.
6. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 4, wherein said
interior plate further comprises a slit defined by first and second
opposed edges, and wherein said slit extends from said perimeter
edge of said interior plate to said interior fixture receiving
aperture of said interior plate.
7. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 6, wherein said
interior plate further comprises first and second threaded
apertures for receiving co-operating threaded fasteners
therein.
8. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 7, wherein said
interior plate further comprises first and second aperture
reinforcements secured to said interior plate, and said first and
second apertures extend through said first and second aperture
reinforcements, respectively.
9. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 1, wherein said
exterior member comprises an exterior plate having a perimeter
edge, an upper surface, and a lower surface.
10. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 9, wherein said
exterior plate has an exterior fixture receiving aperture disposed
therein.
11. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 10, wherein said
exterior plate comprises first and second apertures therein for
receiving co-operating threaded fasteners therethrough.
12. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 11, wherein said
exterior plate is circular.
13. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 1, wherein said
exterior plate is decorative in shape.
14. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 13, wherein at least
a portion of said exterior plate is translucent.
15. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 13, wherein at least
a portion of said exterior plate is transparent.
16. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 1, wherein said means
for interconnecting said interior member and said exterior member
in clamping relation comprises first and second threaded
fasteners.
17. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 1, wherein said means
for interconnecting said interior member and said exterior member
with respect to said ceiling or a wall, interconnects said interior
member and said exterior member in clamping relation with respect
to said ceiling or a wall.
18. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 1, wherein said means
for interconnecting said interior member and said exterior member
in clamping relation comprises first and second spring members.
19. The recess light fixture adapter of claim 9, wherein said
exterior plate further comprises first and second aperture
receiving mounts secured to the upper surface of said exterior
plate, and said first and second apertures extend through said
first and second aperture receiving mounts, respectively.
20. A method of mounting a recess light fixture in an existing
ceiling or a wall, said method comprising the steps of: (A)
mounting an interior member against the interior surface of a
ceiling or a wall; (B) mounting an exterior member against the
exterior surface of a ceiling or a wall; and (C) interconnecting
said interior member and said exterior member in clamping relation
with respect to said ceiling or a wall.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to recess light fixture
adapters, and more particularly to recess light fixture adapters
for mounting a recess light fixture in an existing ceiling or wall
having an over-sized opening.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0002] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic
of the recess light fixture adapter according to the present
invention, as to its structure, organization, use and method of
operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof,
will be better understood from the following drawings in which a
presently preferred embodiment of the invention will now be
illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however,
that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and
description only, and are not intended as a definition of the
limits of the invention. In the accompanying drawings:
[0003] FIG. 1 is a perspective view a prior art recessed light
installed in a ceiling;
[0004] FIG. 2 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1 of the
opening in the existing ceiling used to accommodate the prior art
recessed light of FIG. 1;
[0005] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment of
the recess light fixture adapter according to the present invention
installed in the over-sized opening in the existing ceiling, of
FIG. 2;
[0006] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side elevational view taken.
along section line 4-4 of FIG. 3;
[0007] FIG. 5 is a bottom plan view of the exterior plate of the
recess light fixture adapter of FIG. 3;
[0008] FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the exterior plate of
FIG. 5;
[0009] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of the
exterior plate of FIG. 5, taken along section line 7-7 of FIG.
5;
[0010] FIG. 8 is a bottom plan view of the interior plate of the
recess light fixture adapter of FIG. 3;
[0011] FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the interior plate of FIG.
8;
[0012] FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of the interior plate of
FIG. 8;
[0013] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of the
interior plate of FIG. 8, taken along section line 11-11 of FIG.
9;
[0014] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional side elevational view similar
to FIG. 4, but prior to the recess light fixture adapter being
installed in the opening;
[0015] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional side elevational view similar
to FIG. 12, but with the interior plate about to be installed;
[0016] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional side elevational view similar
to FIG. 13, but with the interior plate partially installed;
[0017] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional side elevational view similar
to FIG. 14, but with the interior plate installed;
[0018] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional side elevational view similar
to FIG. 15, but additionally with the exterior plate about to be
installed;
[0019] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional side elevational view similar
to FIG. 16, but with the exterior plate in place and with the
threaded fasteners about to engage the exterior plate and the
interior plate;
[0020] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional side elevational view similar
to FIG. 17, but with the threaded fasteners in place and the recess
light fixture adapter fully installed;
[0021] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional side elevational view similar
to FIG. 18, but with a recess light fixture about to be installed
in the recess light fixture adapter;
[0022] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional side elevational view similar
to FIG. 19, but with the recess light fixture partially installed
in the recess light fixture adapter;
[0023] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional side elevational view similar
to FIG. 20, but with the recess light fixture fully installed in
the recess light fixture adapter;
[0024] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of a
first alternative embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter
according to the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of a
second alternative embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter
according to the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of a
third alternative embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter
according to the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the fourth alternative
embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter according to the
present invention installed in the over-sized opening in an
existing ceiling;
[0028] FIG. 26 is a perspective view from the top of the interior
plate of the fourth alternative embodiment recess light fixture
adapter of FIG. 25;
[0029] FIG. 27 is a bottom plan view of the interior plate of FIG.
26;
[0030] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of the
interior plate of FIG. 26, taken along section line 28-28;
[0031] FIG. 29 is an enlarged cross-sectional side elevational view
of a portion of the interior plate shown in FIG. 28;
[0032] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of the interior plate of the
fourth alternative embodiment recess light fixture adapter of FIG.
25;
[0033] FIG. 31 is a top plan view of the exterior plate of FIG.
30;
[0034] FIG. 32 is a bottom plan view of the exterior plate of FIG.
30;
[0035] FIG. 33 is a side elevational view of the exterior plate of
FIG. 30;
[0036] FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional front elevational view of the
exterior plate of FIG. 30, taken along section line 34-34 of FIG.
31;
[0037] FIG. 35 is an enlarged cross-sectional front elevational
view of the exterior plate of FIG. 30, taken along section line
35-35 of FIG. 31;
[0038] FIG. 36 is an enlarged cross-sectional front elevational
view of the exterior plate of FIG. 30, taken along section line
36-36 of FIG. 31;
[0039] FIG. 37 is an enlarged cross-sectional front elevational
view of the exterior plate of FIG. 30, taken along section line
37-37 of FIG. 31;
[0040] FIG. 38 is a side elevational view of the fifth alternative
embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter according to the
present invention, but showing only the exterior plate;
[0041] FIG. 39 is a side elevational view the fifth alternative
embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter of FIG. 38,
installed in the over-sized opening in an existing ceiling;
[0042] FIG. 40 is a side elevational view of the sixth alternative
embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter according to the
present invention;
[0043] FIG. 41 is a side elevational view of the seventh
alternative embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter
according to the present invention, with the posts in a stored
configuration;
[0044] FIG. 42 is a side elevational view similar to FIG. 41, but
with the posts in an in-use configuration;
[0045] FIG. 43 is a side elevational view of the eighth alternative
embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter according to the
present invention;
[0046] FIG. 44 is a side elevational view of the ninth alternative
embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter according to the
present invention;
[0047] FIG. 45 is a side elevational view of the tenth alternative
embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter according to the
present invention; and
[0048] FIG. 46 is a side elevational view of the eleventh
alternative embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter
according to the present invention.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0049] Recess light fixtures are installed in the ceilings of many
residential basements and homes, offices, and many other commercial
buildings. Over the past several years, such recess light fixtures
commonly have been about five or six inches in diameter. Such a
prior art recess light fixture installed in a ceiling is shown in
FIG. 1.
[0050] More recently, relatively compact recess light fixtures
having a diameter of about two inches, three inches, four inches,
or four and one eighth inches, or essentially any size less than
five inches, have become common, and are replacing the older style
wider diameter recess light fixtures. As a result, once the older
style six inch diameter recessed lights are removed from ceiling,
an over-sized opening exists. However, an opening in the ceiling
that accommodates a six inch diameter recess light fixture will not
properly accommodate a four or four and one half inch diameter
recess light fixture. Accordingly, the opening must be altered,
filled in, or changed in some manner. If the ceiling is a plaster
ceiling, the ceiling must be partially reconstructed and
replastered, and then repainted, as appropriate, which is a
nuisance and also relatively expensive. Indeed, the cost and
inconvenience are significant deterrent to replacing older recess
light fixtures with newer recess light fixtures.
[0051] Currently, there is no known means in the prior art to mount
a recess light fixture into an existing ceiling having an existing
over-sized opening. The closest relevant prior art will now be
discussed.
[0052] U.S. Pat. No. 5,836,677 issued Nov. 17, 1998 to Conners et
al, discloses a Retrofit Compact Flourescent Lamp System that
comprises a reflector unit adapting to be installed into an
existing light fixture. The reflector unit provides an improved
environment for distribution of light from a compact flourescent
lamp. A light fixture is inserted into an opening in a ceiling that
encloses a compact flourescent lamp and reflector unit for the
compact flourescent lamp.
[0053] U.S. Pat. No. 6,149,280 issued Nov. 21, 2000, to Quiogue et
al, discloses a Method and Apparatus for Retrofitting Canopy
Luminaire Assemblies. An existing light fixture is removed and
housing brackets are attached to the housing flanges of the
existing canopy housing. An adapter plate comprising a plate with a
deck plate bracket having a latch, is mounted to the housing
brackets by use of the latch. A lighting assembly comprising a
light source, a lens, and a reflector, is attached to the adapter
plate.
[0054] It is an object of the present invention to provide a recess
light fixture adapter for mounting a recess light fixture into an
existing ceiling or a wall having an existing over-sized
opening.
[0055] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
recess light fixture adapter for mounting a recess light fixture
into an existing ceiling or a wall having an existing over-sized
opening, wherein another recess light fixture has been removed from
the opening.
[0056] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
recess light fixture adapter for mounting a recess light fixture
into an existing ceiling or a wall having an existing over-sized
opening, which recess light fixture adapter is easy to install.
[0057] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
recess light fixture adapter for mounting a recess light fixture
into an existing ceiling or a wall having an existing over-sized
opening, which recess light fixture adapter is inexpensive to
manufacture.
[0058] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
recess light fixture adapter for mounting a recess light fixture
into an existing ceiling or a wall having an existing over-sized
opening, which recess light fixture adapter precludes the
reconstruction of a plaster ceiling.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0059] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there
is disclosed a novel recess light fixture adapter for mounting a
recess light fixture in an existing ceiling or a wall having an
existing oversized opening. The recess light fixture adapter
comprises an interior member for mounting against the interior
surface of a ceiling or a wall, an exterior member for mounting
against the exterior surface of a ceiling or a wall, and means for
interconnecting the interior member and the exterior member with
respect to the ceiling or a wall.
[0060] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention
there is disclosed a novel method of mounting a recess light
fixture in an existing ceiling or a wall having an existing
over-sized opening, the method comprising the steps of mounting an
interior member against the interior surface of a ceiling or a
wall; mounting an exterior member against the exterior surface of a
ceiling or a wall; and interconnecting the interior member and the
exterior member with respect to the ceiling or a wall.
[0061] Other advantages, features and characteristics of the
present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of
the related elements of the structure, and the combination of parts
and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon
consideration of the following detailed description and the
appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, the
latter of which is briefly described herein below.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED AND ALTERNATIVE
EMBODIMENTS
[0062] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 46 of the drawings, it will be
noted that FIG. 1 illustrates a prior at recess light fixture, FIG.
2 illustrates the opening in the existing ceiling used to
accommodate the prior art recessed light of FIG. 1, FIGS. 3 through
21 illustrate a preferred embodiment of the recess light fixture
adapter of the present invention, FIG. 22 illustrates a first
alternative embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter of the
present invention, FIG. 23 illustrates a second alternative
embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter of the present
invention, FIG. 24 illustrates a third alternative embodiment of
the recess light fixture adapter of the present invention, FIGS. 25
through 37 illustrate a fourth alternative embodiment of the recess
light fixture adapter of the present invention, FIGS. 38 and 39
illustrate a fifth alternative embodiment of the recess light
fixture adapter of the present invention, FIG. 40 illustrates a
sixth alternative embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter of
the present invention, FIGS. 41 and 42 illustrate a seventh
alternative embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter of the
present invention, FIG. 43 illustrates an eighth alternative
embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter of the present
invention, FIG. 44 illustrates a ninth alternative embodiment of
the recess light fixture adapter of the present invention, FIG. 45
illustrates a tenth alternative embodiment of the recess light
fixture adapter of the present invention, and FIG. 46 illustrates
an eleventh alternative embodiment of the recess light fixture
adapter of the present invention.
[0063] Reference will now be made to FIGS. 1 through 21, to
describe in detail a preferred embodiment of the recess light
fixture adapter of the present invention, as indicated by general
reference numeral 20. The ceiling 24 may be a plaster ceiling or a
drop ceiling, and the wall can be a plaster wall or a drywall type
of wall. The recess light fixture adapter 20, is for mounting a
recess light fixture 22 in an existing ceiling 24 or a wall having
an existing over-sized opening 26. For the sake of convenience, the
ceiling 24 will be referred to in this description. The existing
over-sized opening 26 is typically the result of a larger diameter
fixture being removed from the ceiling 24, but may also be the
result of an opening being cut too large.
[0064] Briefly, the preferred embodiment recess light fixture
adapter 20 comprises interior plate 30 that is disposed behind the
ceiling 24, and an exterior plate that is disposed on the outer
surface of the ceiling 24. First and second threaded fasteners
51,52 interconnect the interior member 30 and the exterior member
60. The recess light fixture adapter 20 will now be described in
detail.
[0065] The recess light fixture adapter 20 comprises an interior
member for mounting against the interior surface of a ceiling 24 or
a wall. In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the interior
member comprises the interior plate 30. The interior plate 30 has a
perimeter edge 32, an upper surface 34, a lower surface 36, and an
interior fixture receiving aperture 38 disposed therein. The
interior fixture receiving aperture 38 is shown as circular in
shape, but may also be any other suitable shape. The recess light
fixture 22 that is to be mounted in the wall or ceiling 24 passes
through the interior fixture receiving aperture 38.
[0066] The interior plate 30 is flexible, and is preferably made
from a strong material such as various metals (such as aluminum or
steel), plastic, any suitable material or materials.
[0067] The interior plate 30 further comprises a slit 40 defined by
first and second opposed edges 42,44. The slit 40 extends from the
perimeter edge 32 of the interior plate 30 to the interior fixture
receiving aperture 38 of the interior plate 30.
[0068] The interior plate 30 further comprises first and second
aperture reinforcements secured to the upper surface of the
interior plate 30. The first and second aperture reinforcements
46,48 are preferably made from a suitable metal material, for the
purposes of strength and durability, but also may be made from a
suitable plastic material, or any other suitable material. If the
first and second aperture reinforcements 46,48, and the interior
plate 30 are all made from a suitable metal material, the first and
second aperture reinforcements 46,48 are each secured to the
interior plate 30 preferably by means of a metal stake 54,56 and
also by welding, as illustrated. If the first and second aperture
reinforcements 46,48, and the interior plate 30 are all made from a
suitable plastic material, they may all be integrally moulded in
one piece.
[0069] The interior plate 30 has first and second threaded
apertures 57,58 for receiving the co-operating threaded fasteners
51,52 therein. The first and second threaded apertures 57,58 also
extend through the first and second aperture reinforcements 46,48,
respectively.
[0070] The exterior member 60 of the recess light fixture adapter
20 is for mounting against the exterior surface of the ceiling 24.
In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the exterior member 60
comprises the circular exterior plate 60. The exterior plate 60 has
a perimeter edge 62, an upper surface 64, a lower surface 66, and
an exterior fixture receiving aperture 68 disposed therein. The
exterior fixture receiving aperture 68 is shown as circular in
shape, but may also be any other suitable shape. The recess light
fixture 22 that is to be mounted in the wall or ceiling 24 passes
through the exterior fixture receiving aperture 68.
[0071] The exterior plate 60 comprises first and second apertures
70,72 therein for receiving co-operating first and second threaded
fasteners 51,52 therethrough, respectively, which threaded
fasteners 51,52 extend to the first and second threaded apertures
57,58 of the interior plate 30.
[0072] When the interior plate 30 and the exterior plate 60 are in
place in the ceiling 24, the interior fixture receiving aperture 38
of the interior plate 30 and the exterior fixture receiving
aperture 68 of the exterior plate 60 are substantially aligned one
with the other so as to permit a recess light fixture 22 that is to
be mounted in the wall or ceiling 24 to pass therethrough.
[0073] There is also means for interconnecting the interior member
30 and the exterior member 60 in clamping relation with respect to
the ceiling 24. In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the
means for interconnecting the interior member 30 and the exterior
member 60 in clamping relation comprises the first and second
threaded fasteners 51,52.
[0074] In use, the interior member 30, specifically the interior
plate 30 as illustrated, is mounted against the interior surface
24i of the ceiling 24, as will now be described with reference to
FIGS. 12 through 15. FIG. 12 shows an existing ceiling 24 having an
existing opening 26 from which a old style six inch diameter recess
light fixture (FIG. 1) has been removed in favour of a smaller
diameter recess light fixture 22. Relative to the smaller diameter
recess light fixture 22, the opening 26 (FIG. 2) is an over-sized
opening 26, and the smaller diameter recess light fixture 22 cannot
be mounted therein without the use of the recess light fixture
adapter 20 according to the present invention.
[0075] As indicated by arrow "A" in FIG. 13, the exterior member
60, specifically the exterior plate 60, is introduced to the
over-sized opening 26 in the ceiling 24. The flexible exterior
plate 60 is then elastically deformed such that the by first and
second opposed edges 42,44 that define the slit 40 are separated
one from the other. As indicated by arrow "B" in FIG. 14, one of
the first and second opposed edges 42,44, and in this case the
first opposed edge 42, is introduced above the ceiling 24. The
exterior plate 60 is then "spiralled" inwardly and upwardly until
the exterior plate 60 has been passed through the over-sized
opening 26, even though the interior plate 30 itself is wider than
the over-sized opening 26. As can be best seen in FIG. 15, the
interior plate 30 is then mounted against the interior surface 24i
of the ceiling 24.
[0076] The exterior plate 60 is then introduced to the ceiling 24,
as indicated by arrow "C" in FIG. 16, and mounted against the
exterior surface 24e of the ceiling 24, as can be best seen in FIG.
17. The interior fixture receiving aperture 38 and the exterior
fixture receiving aperture 68 must be aligned one with the other.
Further, the first aperture 70 of the exterior plate 60 and the
first threaded aperture 57 of the interior plate 30 must be aligned
one with the other, and the second aperture 72 of the exterior
plate 60 and the second threaded aperture 58 of the interior plate
30 must be aligned one with the other.
[0077] The means for interconnecting the interior member and the
exterior member 60 in clamping relation, specifically the first and
second threaded fasteners 51,52 as illustrated, are introduced to
the exterior plate 60, as indicated by arrows "D" in FIG. 17. The
first and second threaded fasteners 51,52 are first inserted into
the first and second apertures 70,72 of the exterior plate 60, and
then threadibly engaged into the first and second threaded
apertures 57,58 of the interior plate 30. As can be best seen in
FIG. 18, the first and second threaded fasteners 51,52 are turned
until the interior plate 30 is brought into clamping engagement
with the interior surface of the ceiling 24 and the exterior plate
60 is brought into clamping engagement with the exterior surface of
the ceiling 24. Accordingly, the means for interconnecting the
interior member and the exterior member 60 in clamping relation,
namely the first and second threaded fasteners 51,52, are used to
interconnect the interior member and the exterior member 60 in
clamping relation with respect to the ceiling 24.
[0078] Finally, as indicated by arrow "E" in FIG. 19, the recess
light fixture 22 is introduced to the recess light fixture adapter
20 that has been installed in the over-sized opening 26 in the
ceiling 24. As can be best seen in FIG. 20, the recess light
fixture 22 is passed through the exterior fixture receiving
aperture 68 and then through the interior fixture receiving
aperture 38, until it is properly mounted in place in the recess
light fixture adapter 20. Depending on the specific recess light
fixture 22, the securing of the recess light fixture 22 in place
may happen in any one of a number of ways. As illustrated, the two
arms are bent into an installed shape so as to retain the recess
light fixture in place. Other methods and structures are
alternatively used to retain the recess light fixture in place
depending on the manufacturer of the recess light fixture.
[0079] Further, in the above described manner, the present
invention also provides a method of mounting a recess light fixture
22 in an existing ceiling 24.
[0080] Reference will now be made to FIG. 22, which shows a first
alternative embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter
according to the present invention, as indicated by general
reference numeral 120. The first alternative embodiment recess
light fixture adapter 120 is similar to the preferred embodiment
recess light fixture adapter 20 except that the means for
interconnecting the interior member 130 and the exterior member 160
in clamping relation comprises first and second spring members
151,152. Accordingly, the first and second spring members 151,152
permanently interconnect the interior plate 130 and the exterior
plate 160. The first and second spring members 151,152 are
dimensioned such that they are in tension when the recess light
fixture adapter 120 is in place in the ceiling 124, in order to
keep the recess light fixture adapter 120 securely in place.
[0081] Reference will now be made to FIG. 23, which shows a second
alternative embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter
according to the present invention, as indicated by general
reference numeral 220. The second alternative embodiment recess
light fixture adapter 220 is similar to the preferred embodiment
recess light fixture adapter 20 except that the exterior plate 260
further comprises first and second aperture receiving mounts
261,263 secured to the upper surface 264 of the exterior plate 260.
The first and second apertures 270,272 extend through the first and
second aperture receiving mounts 261,263, respectively, and not
through the exterior plate 260. In this manner, the first and
second threaded fasteners 251,252 are hidden when the second
alternative embodiment recess light fixture adapter 220 is in place
in the ceiling 224, and a recess light fixture (not shown) is in
place in the second alternative embodiment recess light fixture
adapter 220. The first and second aperture reinforcements 246,248,
on the interior plate 230 have first and second threaded apertures
257,258 extend therethrough, respectively, to receive the first and
second threaded fasteners 251,252, respectively, therein.
[0082] Reference will now be made to FIG. 24, which shows a third
alternative embodiment of the recess light fixture adapter
according to the present invention, as indicated by general
reference numeral 320. The third alternative embodiment recess
light fixture adapter 320 is similar to the preferred embodiment
recess light fixture adapter 20 except that the exterior plate 360
is decorative in shape, specifically a flower, which might be
suitable for a kitchen. Other shapes can also be used, such as ones
that might be suitable for a child's bedroom. Further, at least a
portion 361 of the exterior plate 360 is transparent to permit
light to shine through the exterior plate 360, and at least a
portion 362 of the exterior plate 360 is translucent to make those
portions 362 of the exterior plate 360 glow, all for the purpose of
making the exterior plate 360 attractive.
[0083] Reference will now be made to FIGS. 25 through 37, to
describe in detail a fourth alternative embodiment of the recess
light fixture adapter of the present invention, as indicated by
general reference numeral 420. The recess light fixture adapter
420, is for mounting a recess light fixture 422 in an existing
ceiling 424 or a wall having an existing over-sized opening 426,
and is similar to the preferred embodiment recess light fixture
adapter 20 of the present invention, except that the first and
second threaded fasteners 51,52 have been replaced, as will be
described subsequently.
[0084] Briefly, the preferred embodiment recess light fixture
adapter 420 comprises interior plate 430 that is disposed behind
the ceiling 424, and an exterior plate that is disposed on the
outer surface of the ceiling 424. First and second posts 451,452
interconnect the interior member 430 and the exterior member 460.
The recess light fixture adapter 420 will now be described in
detail.
[0085] The recess light fixture adapter 420 comprises an interior
member for mounting against the interior surface of a ceiling 424
or a wall. In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the
interior member comprises the interior plate 430. The interior
plate 430 has a perimeter edge 432, an upper surface 434, a lower
surface 436, and an interior fixture receiving aperture 438
disposed therein. The interior fixture receiving aperture 438 is
shown as circular in shape, but may also be any other suitable
shape. The recess light fixture 422 that is to be mounted in the
wall or ceiling 424 passes through the interior fixture receiving
aperture 438.
[0086] The interior plate 430 is flexible, and is preferably made
from a strong material such as metal, or perhaps plastic.
[0087] The interior plate 430 further comprises a slit 440 defined
by first and second opposed edges 442,444. The slit 440 extends
from the perimeter edge 432 of the interior plate 430 to the
interior fixture receiving aperture 438 of the interior plate
430.
[0088] The interior plate 430 has first and second slot-shaped
apertures 457,458 for receiving the co-operating posts 451,452
therein.
[0089] The interior plate 430 has concentric first, second and
third substantially circular scores 431,433,435 cut into it,
surrounding the interior fixture receiving aperture 438. Actually,
each of the substantially circular scores 431,433,435 comprises two
substantially semi-circular scores separated by small portions of
metal. As illustrated, the interior fixture receiving aperture 438
is three and three-eighths inches in diameter to receive a recess
light fixture from about three inches in diameter to about three
and three-eighths inches in diameter. The first score 431 is three
and seven-eighths inches in diameter to receive a recess light
fixture in the range from about three and three-eighths inches to
about three and seven-eighths inches in diameter, the second score
433 is four and three-eighths inches in diameter to receive a
recess light fixture in the range from about three and
seven-eighths inches to about four and three-eighths inches in
diameter, and the third score 435 is four and seven-eighths inches
in diameter to receive a recess light fixture in the range from
about four and three-eighths inches to about four and seven-eighths
inches in diameter.
[0090] The recess light fixture adapter 420 also comprises an
exterior member 460 for mounting against the exterior surface of
the ceiling 424. In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the
exterior member 460 comprises the circular exterior plate 460 that
is upwardly concave. The exterior plate 460 has a perimeter edge
465, an upper surface 464, a lower surface 466, and an exterior
fixture receiving aperture 468 disposed therein. The exterior
fixture receiving aperture 468 is shown as circular in shape, but
may also be any other suitable shape. The recess light fixture 422
that is to be mounted in the wall or ceiling 424 passes through the
exterior fixture receiving aperture 468.
[0091] The exterior plate 460 has concentric first, second and
third substantially circular score lines 461,462,463 moulded into
the upper surface 464 of the exterior plate 460, so that the score
lines that remain on the exterior plate 460 when it is in place,
cannot be seen. The first, second, and third substantially circular
score lines 461,462,463 surround the exterior fixture receiving
aperture 468, and permit the exterior plate 460 to properly fit any
presently know size of recess light fixture. As illustrated, the
exterior fixture receiving aperture 468 is three and three-eighths
inches in diameter to receive a recess light fixture from about
three inches in diameter to about three and three-eighths inches in
diameter. The first score line 461 is three and seven-eighths
inches in diameter to receive a recess light fixture in the range
from about three and three-eighths inches to about three and
seven-eighths inches in diameter, the second score line 462 is four
and three-eighths inches in diameter to receive a recess light
fixture in the range from about three and seven-eighths inches to
about four and three-eighths inches in diameter, and the third
score line 463 is four and seven-eighths inches in diameter to
receive a recess light fixture in the range from about four and
three-eighths inches to about four and seven-eighths inches in
diameter. Alternatively, a hole saw, a sharp knife, or any other
suitable tool could be used to cut an aperture of a suitable
size.
[0092] The score lines 461,462,463 are separated into four
quadrants by four radial score lines 469.
[0093] When the interior plate 430 and the exterior plate 460 are
in place in the ceiling 424, the interior fixture receiving
aperture 438 of the interior plate 430 and the exterior fixture
receiving aperture 468 of the exterior plate 460 are substantially
aligned one with the other so as to permit a recess light fixture
422 that is to be mounted in the wall or ceiling 424 to pass
therethrough.
[0094] There is also means for interconnecting the interior member
430 and the exterior member 460 in clamping relation with respect
to the ceiling 424. In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated,
the means for interconnecting the interior member 430 and the
exterior member 460 in clamping relation comprises the first and
second posts 451,452. The first and second posts 451,452 extend
upwardly from the exterior plate 460. As can be best seen in FIGS.
30, 33, 34 and 37, the posts 451,452 comprise two arm portions
451a,451b, and 452a,45b, respectively, and an end loop portion
451c,452c.
[0095] In use, as can be best seen in FIG. 25, the interior plate
430 is mounted against the interior surface 424i of the ceiling
424, in the same manner as is described for the interior member 30
in the preferred embodiment recess light fixture adapter 20. The
exterior plate 460 is then mounted against the exterior surface
424e of the ceiling 424. The interior fixture receiving aperture
438 and the exterior fixture receiving aperture 468 must be aligned
one with the other. Further, each of the posts 451,452 of the
exterior plate 460 must be aligned with a corresponding one of the
first and second slot-shaped apertures 457,458 of the interior
plate 430. The end loop portion 451b,452b of the posts 451,452 are
compressed as they pass through the first and second slot-shaped
apertures 457,458, and retain the exterior plate 460 in mounted
relation to the interior plate 430 before the recess light fixture
422 is mounted in place.
[0096] The recess light fixture 422 is then introduced to the
recess light fixture adapter 420 that has been installed in the
over-sized opening 426 in the ceiling 424. The two spring arms 423
are pushed inwardly during the installation of the recess light
fixture 422, and then spring outwardly so as to each be aligned
with a corresponding one of the co-operating receiving slots 431 in
the interior plate 430.
[0097] Reference will now be made to FIGS. 38 and 39, which show a
fifth alternative embodiment of the interior plate 560 and interior
plate 530 according to the present invention. The exterior plate
560 has a pair of plastic posts 570,572. Each post is about two to
three inches long, and is ribbed along its length. The slanted ribs
are dimensioned just slightly greater than co-operating apertures
557,558 due to deformation upon being forced through the apertures
and contact the upper surface 534 of the interior plate 530, after
expanding, so as to preclude the posts 570,572 from being extracted
from the respective apertures 557,558. In the event that the
exterior plate 560 is made from plastic, the posts 570,572 may be
integrally formed with the exterior plate 560. If desired, the
posts 570,572 may be otherwise secured to the exterior plate 560 in
a suitable manner.
[0098] Reference will now be made to FIG. 40, which shows a sixth
alternative embodiment of the present invention, as indicated by
the general reference numeral 620. In this sixth alternative
embodiment, the plastic posts 670,672 are not integrally formed
with the exterior plate 660, but are separate. The plastic posts
670,672 has a square head 671,673, respectively that is received
within a co-operating recess 661,663 defined by two opposed
co-planar flanges 662a,662b and 664a,664b formed on the exterior
plate 660.
[0099] Reference will now be made to FIGS. 41 and 42, which show a
seventh alternative embodiment of the present invention, as
indicated by the general reference numeral 720. In this seventh
alternative embodiment, each post 770,772 is integrally moulded
with the exterior plate 760 and attached thereto by means of a
living hinge 771,773. Prior to use, each of the posts 770 is in a
stored configuration, disposed against the exterior plate 760, as
shown in FIG. 41. For the purpose of installation, each of the
posts 770 is in an in-use configuration, flipped up so as to be
disposed perpendicularly to the exterior plate 760, as shown in
FIG. 42.
[0100] Reference will now be made to FIG. 43, which shows an eighth
alternative embodiment of the present invention, as indicated by
the general reference numeral 820. In this eighth alternative
embodiment, two torsion spring clips 870 each act as a post. Each
torsion spring clip 870 has a lower ring-shaped base 871 and a pair
of serpentine arms 872a,872b extending upwardly from the lower
ring-shaped base 871 at diverging orientations. Each of the
serpentine arms 872a,872b terminates in a transverse end portion
873a,873b. The lower ring-shaped base 871 is retained in frictional
relation to a co-operating round transversely oriented post on an
exterior plate (not shown). In use, the serpentine arms 872a,872b
are pinched together and the a transverse end portions 873a,873b
are inserted through a co-operating aperture in an interior plate
(not shown).
[0101] Reference will now be made to FIG. 44, which shows an ninth
alternative embodiment of the present invention, as indicated by
the general reference numeral 920. In this ninth alternative
embodiment, the torsion spring clip 970 is similar to the torsion
spring clip 870 in the eighth alternative embodiment of the present
invention, except that the arms 972a,972b are substantially
straight, instead of being serpentine in shape.
[0102] Reference will now be made to FIG. 45, which shows an tenth
alternative embodiment of the present invention, as indicated by
the general reference numeral 1020. In this tenth alternative
embodiment, two leaf spring clips 1070 each act as a post. Each
leaf spring clip 1070 has a two oppositely directed feet
1071a,1071b and a pair of substantially parallel serpentine arms
1072a,1072b extending upwardly from the oppositely directed feet
1071a,1071b, respectively. The serpentine arms 1072a,1072b are
joined at the top in a curved end portion 1073. The two oppositely
directed feet 1071a,1071b are attached to an exterior plate (not
shown) within a recess formed by two opposed co-planar flanges (not
shown).
[0103] Reference will now be made to FIG. 46, which shows an
eleventh alternative embodiment of the present invention, as
indicated by the general reference numeral 1120. In this eleventh
alternative embodiment, each post comprises a "Christmas clip"
1170. Each "Christmas clip" 1170 has a central post portion 1171
and a plurality of thin bristles 1172 extending transversely
outwardly from the central post portion 1171. The diameter of the
central post portion 1171 is slightly smaller than a co-operating
aperture in an interior plate (not shown) and the overall outside
diameter of the "Christmas clip" 1170 across the ends of the
plurality of thin bristles 1172 is larger than the co-operating
aperture in an interior plate. In this manner, the plurality of
thin bristles 1172 retain the "Christmas clip" 1170 in an interior
plate.
[0104] It should also be noted that when installing a recess light
fixture, the exterior plate could be used to cover a hole that has
been mistakenly cut slightly too large for the recess light
fixture.
[0105] Other variations of the above principles will be apparent to
those who are knowledgeable in the field of the invention, and such
variations are considered to be within the scope of the present
invention. Further, other modifications and alterations may be used
in the design and manufacture of the recess light fixture adapter
of the present invention without departing from the spirit and
scope of the accompanying claims.
[0106] As can be understood from the above description and from the
accompanying drawings, the present invention provides a recess
light fixture adapter for mounting a recess light fixture into an
existing ceiling or a wall having an existing over-sized opening,
especially wherein another recess light fixture has been removed
from the opening, which recess light fixture adapter is easy to
install, is inexpensive to manufacture, and precludes the
reconstruction of a plaster ceiling, all of which features are
unknown in the prior art.
* * * * *